Among those freed are former Ministers of Defence, Oil, and Finance, as well as Senior Military officers who had been convicted or accused of involvement in previous coup attempts. The move is seen as a significant development in the country’s ongoing political crisis.

However, ousted President Mohamed Bazoum remains under house arrest despite growing international calls for his release. Since the military takeover in July 2023, organisations such as the Economic Community of West African States and several Western governments have urged the junta to free him, but Niger’s military rulers have so far refused to comply.

While the release of detainees could be interpreted as a gesture towards easing political tensions, it remains unclear whether this signals a broader shift in the military’s stance. The junta has yet to provide a clear roadmap for a transition to civilian rule, even as the country faces economic sanctions and diplomatic pressure.

Observers are closely monitoring developments as Niger remains at the centre of West Africa’s ongoing political uncertainty. The international community continues to push for stability, but for now, the future of the country’s leadership remains uncertain.

--ChannelAfrica--